Bournemouth boss Howe, whose team travel to the Emirates today, admits he has modelled his side’s playing style on Wenger’s.

Howe, who was just six when Wenger started out in the dugout, said: “He was someone I admired greatly from afar and loved watching his teams play.

“He has had a huge impact on my vision for football. I always used to look to Arsenal for inspiration for how we could change this team and take them in a new direction.

“Our style has similarities to Arsenal. I have huge respect for the club and for their manager.”

Arsenal have lost their last two games – including a 4-0 demolition at Liverpool – and a third straight defeat would spark a full-blown crisis.

Howe, touted as a possible successor to Wenger, said: “One of the things you need as a modern manager is not to listen to it or read the criticism.

“To have the ability to put those things aside and believe in what you are doing is a huge quality. In the midst of all that Arsenal have had huge success.

“Arsene has been able to keep the club moving forward. That is a huge skill and a job that should never be underestimated.

“You have empathy for his situation but we are going there to win and are not focusing on Arsenal. Our only focus is on how we prepare.

“When you play any of the big guns, especially away, you need to start the game well and make it difficult for them.”